In the best of circumstances, dieting is tough work.  Thinking about how to balance a healthy diet, shopping for all the right food groups, planning and preparing interesting and tasty meals to satisfy your body - it can sometimes feel like a full-time job.  So what's a person to do when they just don't have the time to pack a healthy lunch?  Well, the good news is that even at the greasiest fast-food joint, there is almost always a healthy option to help keep you on track.  The key is to prepare yourself mentally not to get swept away by the smell of French fries and the sound of the soda fountain streaming into a paper cup. There are some really great, healthy choices when it comes to eating out.  Even your local drive-thru menus offer some great options for dieters on the go.  Apples, baked potatoes and salads are among the healthy choices at national fast food chains nowadays.  Even a sandwich can be a viable option.  There are a few basic guidelines to keep in mind, however. Always Pick Grilled Choosing a small salad with chicken incorporated in it is a great way to add protein that will help you feel full and keep your energy stable throughout the afternoon.  Look for grilled chicken rather than breaded chicken, which has been deep-fried in oil and packs a ton of extra calories.

Leave The Salad Undressed

When it comes to salads, toppings can ruin the healthiest of salads.   Say no to bacon, choose a light dressing and use it sparingly.  A great technique is to dip your fork in the dressing before each bite.  This way, you get the flavor in each bite without drowning those healthy veggies in excess calories.

Lighten The Mayo

If you're going for a sandwich, hold the mayo altogether or try to really lighten up if you feel you must have it.  When eating out, it's usually best to avoid things like tuna or chicken salad where you seldom have any control over how much mayo has been mixed in.  If you can, choose a grilled chicken or turkey sandwich and load it up with lettuce, spinach or tomatoes.  With the delicious, watery crunch of veggies filling your mouth you won't even miss the mayo.

If your restaurant of choice has any fresh fruit or vegetables on the menu or salad bar, always load up on those first.

Ditch The Soda

When it comes to your beverage of choice, always avoid soda and juice whenever possible.  Particularly when dieting, it's important to avoid drinking any unnecessary calories.  Any place you stop for lunch will have the option of bottled water, and water is by far the best choice to hydrate.  Our bodies are made up of water, and we need it to be healthy.  It also helps fill you up, keeps you energized and aids digestion without adding any calories.

You know what the right choices are for a healthy diet, you just need to take the time to look a little harder at the menu, and don't be afraid to ask for it your way!